End of support for Windows 7

On 14 January 2020, after 10 years, support for Windows 7 will finally end. The operating system is still very often used in private and professional environments. In the future, security updates will no longer be made available, security gaps will no longer be closed and there will be no support for technical problems. The further use of Windows 7 is also no longer responsible for data protection reasons.

Why is Microsoft terminating support for Windows 7?

Microsoft released Windows 7 in October 2009 and support will end after 10 years on 14 January 2020. According to official statements from Microsoft, current investments are focussed on new technologies and applications. In an interview with Handelsblatt, Microsoft explained: "To ensure maximum security and up-to-date functionality, each Windows version has a clearly defined life cycle that we make transparent to our customers". There have been no new features in Windows 7 for five years now, and technical support and software updates will also end on 14 January 2020. Despite this, one in three PC users will still be using Windows 7.

What data protection risks arise?

Although Windows 7 can still be used, the risks for the Data protection and IT security. In the worst case, so-called malicious code can be installed on the computer if it is connected to the Internet. This enables third parties to access all data on the end device. This also includes content such as passwords, online banking or e-mails with confidential content.